Do you remember that manual that didn’t come along with your baby? shocking, that same handbook is never available when it comes to other parenting concerns. I’ve tried my best and have learned a great deal through trial and errors. Hiring babysitters for my girls is one area where I feel I have learned a great deal. Since I don’t have any family nearby, I had to learn to hire babysitters, which wasn’t easy. Here are some of the things I have learned from my own personal experience.
1. You should consider the age of the sitter in relation to your requirements. It’s important to consider all the factors.
They are great because they get right in and play with your children. Last summer, when Kaitlyn’s baby sister was still a few months old, I had an eleven-year-old come to my house one day per week and play with Hailey. She was great at making up games and playing imaginary. The price was also right ($5/hour which her mother told me was too expensive).
If you want a sitter who can handle more advanced tasks (like bathing babies) or drive them around (something that I am not comfortable doing yet), then you should consider a nanny/sitter with more experience. Women in their 50s are great because they’re responsible and have often raised their own children (and what could be better than first-hand experience?) She may also enjoy ‘practicing her grandma skills’ while she waits until her children, who are probably college age, marry and have children.
2. The best recommendation is word of mouth. (Shout out to all the new moms!) I know people are very protective of their trusted sitters, for fear that they will become overworked or choose another family’s children. However, if you can get a referral from a friend/teacher/church for a good sitter, I’ve found it works out SO much better in the long run.